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The market for mini PCs has grown steadily in recent years, catering to users seeking compact, affordable systems for office work, media streaming, or lightweight computing tasks. Among the many options available, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS Mini PC stands out as a budget-friendly device with a focus on basic performance. Equipped with the Intel N97 processor, it offers a slight edge over similar models with the N100 or N150 chips, though it comes with its own set of quirks and limitations. This review provides a thorough examination of the NiPoGi AK1PLUS, comparing its hardware to other processors in the same family, assessing its design, performance, and overall value for money. The aim is to present a balanced perspective on whether this mini PC suits the needs of potential buyers in the UK market.
I have previously reviewed the NiPoGi E1 and found it to be a capable device for its price. NiPoGi has now provided the AK1PLUS for evaluation, which shares similarities with the E1 but brings a marginally improved Intel N97 CPU and upgraded connectivity with WiFi 6 compared to WiFi 5. While the design bears a resemblance to other models in the range, there are subtle differences worth exploring. This analysis will cover the specifications, build quality, performance metrics, and practical usability, alongside a comparison of the Intel N97 with the N100 and N150 processors to help clarify where this device fits in the lineup.
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NiPoGi Mini pc AK1PLUS N97(Βeats N95/N100,Up to... |
£179.99 | Buy on Amazon |
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Specification
| Processor | Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake N97 |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home (64bit) |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel UHD Graphics 1.20GHz |
| Memory (RAM) Size | 16 GB DDR4 |
| Hard Disk Size | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD |
| Storage Expansion | SATA / 2.5-inch SSD |
| Video Interface | 2X HDMI (4K@60Hz)+1x VGA 4K |
| WiFi & Ethernet | WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Data Transfer Interface | 2 x USB 3.0 & 2 X USB 2.0 |
| Power Consumption | 15W |
| Cache | 6MB |
Intel N97 vs N100 vs N150
| CPU Specifications | Intel N97 | Intel N100 | Intel N150 |
| Total Cores | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Total Threads | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 3.60 GHz | 3.40 GHz | 3.6 GHz |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache | 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache | 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| TDP | 12 W | 6 W | 6 W |
| Memory Specifications | |||
| Max Memory Size (dependent on memory type) | 32 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB |
| Memory Types | DDR4 3200 MT/s | DDR4 3200 MT/s | DDR4 3200 MT/s |
| DDR5 4800 MT/s | DDR5 4800 MT/s | DDR5 4800 MT/s | |
| LPDDR5 4800 MT/s | LPDDR5 4800 MT/s | LPDDR5 4800 MT/s | |
| Maximum Memory Speed | 4800 MHz | 4800 MHz | 4800 MHz |
| Max # of Memory Channels | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| ECC Memory Supported ‡ | No | No | |
| GPU Specifications | |||
| GPU Name‡ | Intel® UHD Graphics | Intel® UHD Graphics | Intel® Graphics |
| Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency | 1.20 GHz | 750 MHz | 1 GHz |
| Graphics Output | eDP 1.4b, DP 1.4, HDMI 2.1, MIPI-DSI 1.3 | eDP 1.4b, DP 1.4, HDMI 2.1, MIPI-DSI 1.3 | eDP 1.4b, DP 1.4, HDMI 2.1, MIPI-DSI 1.3 |
| Execution Units | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| 4K Support | Yes, at 60Hz | Yes, at 60Hz | Yes, at 60Hz |
| Max Resolution (HDMI)‡ | 4096 x 2160@60Hz | 4096 x 2160@60Hz | 4096 x 2160@60Hz |
| Max Resolution (DP)‡ | 4096 x 2160@60Hz | 4096 x 2160@60Hz | 4096 x 2160@60Hz |
| DirectX* Support | 12.1 | 12.1 | 12.1 |
| OpenGL* Support | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 |
| OpenCL* Support | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Intel® Quick Sync Video | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| # of Displays Supported ‡ | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Device ID | 0x46D1 | 0x46D4 | |
| Expansion Options | |||
| Chipset / PCH PCIe Revision | Gen 3 | Gen 3 | Gen 3 |
| Max # of PCI Express Lanes | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| I/O Specifications | |||
| USB Revision | 2.0/3.2 | 2.0/3.2 | 2.0/3.2 |
| General Purpose IO | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Peformance | |||
| Single Thread Rating(% diff. to max in group) | 1908 | 1935 | 1920 |
| CPU Mark(% diff. to max in group) | 5398 | 5616 | 5525 |
Unboxing
Physically, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS follows the typical mini PC form factor, being compact enough to fit in the palm of a hand. Its dimensions make it smaller than a traditional DVD drive, which is ideal for space-constrained environments like small offices or home entertainment setups. The casing, available in a dark grey often described as black, has a functional rather than premium appearance. Ventilation is provided through a side panel that also features an RGB status indicator, lighting up blue when active, amber in standby, and red during boot or power-off states. While this can be useful in low-light conditions, the light is less visible in brighter settings.
The I/O layout includes a front panel with a power/reset button, two USB 3.0 ports, and one USB 2.0 port. On the side, rather than the back, are additional connections: a power input, another USB 2.0 port, two HDMI ports, a LAN port, and a microphone jack. There’s also a locking mechanism for securing the device to a desk, a feature often seen in office-oriented hardware. The placement of ports on the side rather than the rear is unconventional and may lead to a less tidy cable setup, depending on the user’s desk arrangement.
Uprgadability
On the outside, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS is similar to most mini PCs, but opening up reveals some unusual design choices.
On the base, you have two latches to unlock and two screw holes. The screw holes open up a compartment for a 2.5” SSD. The latches then remove the base, but this base is basically an SSD caddy that plugs into an internal USB-C port.
With the base off, you can access the screws that keep the lid in place. With the lid removed, you see very limited upgrade options.
There is a SATA port visible, but no standard power connector.
The cooling fan then blocks off access to everything else. It is possible to remove the cooling shroud, which then exposes the M.2 port. The RAM is then on the underside of the PC, so not very easy to access.
Set Up – Software Concerns – Chrome with navwithus search
Setting up the AK1PLUS involves a standard Windows 11 Home installation process, but there are notable deviations from a typical experience. Unlike many systems that prompt for a Microsoft account during setup, this device defaults to a local account. While this may appeal to privacy-conscious users, it suggests the operating system has been altered prior to delivery. Additionally, Google Chrome comes pre-installed, and the default search engine is set to a lesser-known provider called “navwithus” rather than a mainstream option. This raises questions about the integrity of the software image.
Research into similar issues with other mini PC brands indicates this practice isn’t unique to NiPoGi. Some manufacturers have faced criticism for including unauthorised pre-installed software, often linked to generating advertising revenue through custom search engines.
Acemagic, has been called out for this in the past, and they responded with the following statement:
“The issue affecting web search stemmed from ACEMAGIC’s previous supplier of bulk installation systems. The supplier independently added pre-installed software without ACEMAGIC’s explicit authorisation. In response, ACEMAGIC has severed ties with this supplier and has transitioned to a new partner, ensuring strict adherence to transparency and user-centric values.”
While scans with security tools like Malwarebytes revealed no immediate threats on the AK1PLUS, the presence of modified software remains a concern for trust and transparency. It’s worth noting that larger brands often preload their systems with bloatware, which can be equally intrusive, though typically from more recognised sources.
While I am not condoning companies modifying Windows, I don’t think NiPoGi, Acemagic or others are up to anything too nefarious. I suspect the modifications are limited, and the main reason for it will be to generate advertising revenue from that custom search engine.
While this is a bad look for the companies, is it really much worse than all the big brands that pre-install a variety of bloatware? I’d argue that brands pre-installing McAfee or Norton is just as bad as this, and most laptop brands are guilty of this.
For what it is worth, I reset the PC using the built-in Windows reset function and selected to delete all files and use a cloud download.
The alternative is to use the Windows media creation tool and create a bootable USB to reset everything.
BIOS Settings
Performance
In practical use, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS performs adequately for its intended purposes, which include light office work, web browsing, and media consumption. The Intel N97 processor, combined with 16 GB of RAM, handles tasks like document editing, spreadsheet management, and internet navigation without noticeable lag. Streaming high-definition content on platforms like Netflix or YouTube works smoothly, benefiting from the system’s ability to output 4K at 60Hz. For users setting up a small media centre, the dual HDMI ports allow connection to multiple displays, enhancing versatility.
Benchmarks
- PCMark 10:
- Total: 3182
- Essentials: 6235
- Productivity: 4824
- Digital Content: 2908
- 3DMark CPU Profile:
- Max Threads: 1300
- 16 Threads: 1300
- 8 Threads: 1301
- 4 Threads: 1304
- 2 Threads: 755
- 1 Thread: 411
- 3DMark Time Spy: 536
- 3Dmark Steel Nomad Light: 351
- 3Dmark Storage Benchmark: 593
- Maxon Cinebench R23:
- Single Core: 2836
- Multi Core: 946
- CrystalDiskMark: 534 MB/s Read, 505 MB/s write
- Aida64:
- Passmark:
- Total: 1512
- CPU: 6046
- 2D Graphics: 411
- 3D Graphics: 1094.6
- Memory: 2433
- Disk: 3781
For context, other mini PCs achieved:
- Passmark
- NiPoGi E1: 1357
- Geekom Mini Air12 Lite: 1208
- Steel Nomad Light
- NiPoGi E1: 294
- Geekom Mini Air12 Lite: 240
- Timespy
- NiPoGi E1:
- Geekom Mini Air12 Lite:
- PCMark
- NiPoGi E1:
- Geekom Mini Air12 Lite: 3116
Gaming Capabilities
While the AK1PLUS is not marketed as a gaming device, it’s worth exploring its potential for running games, especially for users curious about its limits. Testing across a range of titles reveals a clear pattern: modern games are largely unplayable due to the combination of the low-power N97 CPU and Intel UHD Graphics. For instance, attempting to run Black Mesa at 1080p proved impossible, with severe stuttering and unplayable frame rates. Dropping to 720p with low settings yielded an average of 60 frames per second (FPS), but frequent stutters when loading new areas diminished the experience.
Older titles fare better. Dirt 3, for example, runs acceptably at 720p with medium settings, achieving an average of 77 FPS with no stuttering. Games from over a decade ago, such as Half-Life 2, perform well even at 1080p with high settings, showing the system’s ability to handle well-optimised, less demanding software.
These results indicate that while casual or retro gaming is possible, the AK1PLUS is far from a suitable choice for anyone with serious gaming interests. The hardware constraints are evident, and users would be better served by dedicated gaming hardware or even higher-spec mini PCs if gaming is a priority.
Price and Alternative Options
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| NiPoGi Mini pc AK1PLUS N97(Βeats N95/N100,Up to... |
£179.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The NiPoGi AK1PLUS Mini PC has an RRP of £170 and at the time of writing, Amazon had a £50 discount voucher, taking it to £120. This includes 16GB RAM and a 512GB SATA SSD.
The NiPoGi E2 Mini PC has an Intel N97 and is available for £160 with 10% off.
Then the NiPoGi E1 has an N150 processor and is available for £159.
The Huidun H20 has the N97 with matching 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD and is available for £160.
The GMKtec Nucbox G5 also has the same spec, but is installed with Windows 11 Pro, and this is available for £130.
Overall
While the modifications to Windows are a red flag, I wouldn’t rule this mini PC or the brand out of your choices. If anything, it highlights the importance of doing a fresh install for any PC you buy.
I don’t believe that NiPoGi has done anything more nefarious than what every other big brand does with all the pre-installed bloatware.
Moving on from that issue, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS is an excellent, affordable mini PC. It appears to be the most affordable option with the N97 on Amazon and it works perfectly well for light office use or as a small media PC or server.
Overall, I can give the NiPoGi AK1PLUS a recommendation, I’d just advise to reinstall Windows.
NiPoGi AK1 PLUS Mini PC Review
Summary
he NiPoGi AK1PLUS Mini PC is a solid choice for users seeking a compact, budget-friendly computing solution suitable for basic office tasks, media streaming, or small server duties. Its improved connectivity with WiFi 6, coupled with a capable Intel N97 processor and ample RAM, delivers respectable everyday performance.
However, its limitations, notably gaming performance and challenging upgradeability, should be carefully considered. The software customisations, although concerning, are manageable with a straightforward clean Windows installation. Overall, the NiPoGi AK1PLUS is recommended, particularly for users willing to re-install Windows upon purchase. It provides reliable, cost-effective computing in a compact form, suited best for non-demanding applications.
Overall
75%-
Overall - 75%75%
Pros
- Compact design ideal for tight spaces
- Affordable pricing
- Adequate performance for basic office tasks
- WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity
- Expandable storage options
- Dual HDMI support for multi-monitor setups
Cons
- Modified Windows installation necessitates a clean re-install
- Limited upgradeability, especially RAM access
- Marginal gaming performance, restricted to older titles
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2025-06-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
